This apparatus is used to determine Softening point of Bitumen. It is that temperature at which a sample of bituminous material loaded by a 9.5mm dia steel ball, drops a specified distance when heated under specified conditions.

The apparatus consists of steel bracket with a sliding plate support. That support has two holes of 10mm dia on which a ring and ball guide can be kept. A central hole on this plate is for inserting thermometer. Supplied with a glass beaker approximate 600ml, high and a hand stirrer and 2 Nos. 9.5mm dia steel balls.